From Mexico to Morocco: 5 travel-inspired colour ideas

“I’d like my home to feel more personal when I redecorate, but there are so many colour options I don’t know where to start! Any clever ideas where I can look for inspiration?”

Travelling to far-flung destinations is a great way to experience new cultures, arming us with memories that make us smile. But a fabulous holiday or a weekend break can also be a wonderful source of colour inspiration.

If you’re struggling to settle on a colour scheme when you redecorate, why not flick through recent holiday photographs and bring the spirit of wanderlust to your walls? The muted hues of a cool urban cityscape, or vibrant shades from exotic flora and fauna could be the perfect starting point to get your creative juices flowing.

Here, we’ve explored some popular choices to help get you started. Bon voyage!

1. Scandinavian cool

If you’re a fan of pared-back interiors with a modern, elegant vibe, why not channel Scandinavian style the next time you redecorate?

Keep it simple with a cool, muted palette of watery blues or pale greys, and team with pops of olive green and mustard yellow for a subtle, retro feel. Accessorise with natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen for a look that’s calm yet comfortable.

Which paints?

S0.20.21- 90BG 08/075
R7.04.82 – 70BG 72/043

2. Viva la Mexico

Vivid, zesty colours and punchy Aztec prints are perfect if you want to embrace a Mexican-inspired theme in your home.

Start with a white or dark grey backdrop, then have some fun and let your imagination run wild! Choose colours at the vivid end of the spectrum, such as bright blue and sunshine yellow, or add drama with a clashing scheme by pairing citrus hues, like lemon yellow, with fuchsia pink.

Team with succulents or cacti in pots for an authentic hacienda feel to your scheme.

Which paints?

F1.35.35 – 20YY 46/425
A8.39.35 – 70RR 15/400
P8.50.31 – 10BG 11/278

3. London calling

The weather may be a bit gloomy but, when used correctly, a London-inspired slate grey colour scheme can look supremely cosy and sophisticated.

For a versatile palette pick two greys that are a couple of shades apart, and use the lighter grey for the walls and a darker shade for the trim. Team with a crisp, white ceiling and accessorise with red accents inspired by London’s famous double-decker buses. For an edgier look, why not incorporate industrial-style furniture, such as stainless steel bar stools, or a chunky coffee table, into your scheme?

Which paints?

SN.02.67 – 30BB 45/015
RN.01.82 – 72BG 75/023

4. Moroccan magic

If you favour warm, eclectic interiors, consider decorating your home with a Moroccan-inspired colour scheme.

Team warm reds, yellows and ochres with complementary neutral shades like sand and terracotta to evoke the mystery of ancient Marrakesh.

To complete the look, accessorise with brightly coloured lanterns in jewel shades and patterned rugs for a vibrant feel.

Which paints?

E4.34.45 – 00YY 21/321
E5.31.30 – 00YY 12/173

5. African adventure

If you favour earthy, natural colour schemes, why not take a walk on the wild side and add a dash of African magic to your home?

Paint walls in soft, neutral hues, such as khaki and caramel, but keep woodwork and windowsills white for a fresh, crisp look.

Complete your scheme with natural-stained furniture, and add a touch of drama with a zebra-print rug or leopard-print footstool.

Which paints

E8.12.31 – 30YY 11/076
D6.05.55 – 60YR 33/047
E8.15.66 – 20YY 43/200

Top tip If you’re new colour scheme is inspired by a favourite holiday photograph why not frame it and hang it on your freshly painted wall? It’s a great way to personalise your home and will remind you a cherished moment in time.

OR

If you still need a little help with your colour combinations, try the Taubmans Colours of the World range. Simply choose the type of look you’d like from country retreat, city getaway and day at the beach, and mix and match the suggested colours to get a combination that’s right for you.